Giethoorn, often referred to as the "Venice of the Netherlands," offers a unique day trip from Amsterdam. This charming car-free village is home to picturesque canals, wooden bridges, and traditional thatched-roof houses. Visitors can explore the town’s quaint character on a guided walking tour and take in the scenery from a small electric boat cruise. With round-trip transportation included, this small-group experience provides a hassle-free way to escape the bustling city and take in Giethoorn’s timeless ambiance. The opportunity to unwind and discover this enchanting destination may just be the highlight of any Amsterdam visit.
Key Points

- Enjoy a seamless round-trip transportation from Amsterdam to the picturesque car-free village of Giethoorn.
- Set out on a guided walking tour to explore Giethoorn’s thatched-roof houses, wooden bridges, and tranquil canals.
- Immerse in the serene beauty of Giethoorn during a 1-hour small electric boat cruise.
- Experience a personalized small-group tour with opportunities for independent exploration.
- Discover the charming architecture, serene ambiance, and leisurely Dutch lifestyle in the car-free city center.
Exploring Picturesque Giethoorn

Visitors can explore the picturesque village of Giethoorn, known as the ‘Venice of the Netherlands,’ with its charming canals, wooden bridges, and traditional thatched-roof houses.
The car-free city center offers a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for strolling along the water’s edge. Guests can enjoy a guided walking tour, taking in the sights and learning about the village’s unique history and architecture.
One of the highlights of the trip is the 1-hour boat cruise, allowing visitors to navigate the tranquil canals and admire the village from a different perspective.
With its serene beauty and quaint character, Giethoorn provides a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Amsterdam
Round-Trip Transportation From Amsterdam
The day trip from Amsterdam to Giethoorn includes round-trip transportation, making it convenient for travelers to explore the picturesque village.
Participants meet at a central location in Amsterdam and are then comfortably transported to Giethoorn. The return journey is also included, with drop-off at Amsterdam Central Station.
This hassle-free transportation allows visitors to fully enjoy the charming atmosphere of Giethoorn without worrying about logistics.
The transportation provided ensures a stress-free and seamless experience.
Travelers can focus on enjoying the sights and activities without the burden of driving.
The round-trip service allows for a convenient and efficient exploration of Giethoorn.
Small-Group Tour Experience

As part of the day trip, travelers embark on a small-group tour that provides a personalized and engaging experience exploring Giethoorn. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who offers insights into the village’s history and unique architecture. During the tour, guests can enjoy a leisurely walk along the water’s edge, taking in the picturesque canals, wooden bridges, and charming thatched-roof houses.
| Tour Highlights | Duration | Group Size |
|---|---|---|
| Walking Tour | 1-2 hours | 8-12 people |
| Boat Cruise | 1 hour | 2-4 people per boat |
| Free Exploration | As desired | Independent |
The small-group size ensures a more personalized experience, allowing guests to ask questions and interact with the guide. After the tour, travelers have the opportunity to further explore Giethoorn at their own pace.
Car-Free City Center

Giethoorn’s car-free city center allows visitors to fully enjoy the tranquil ambiance, free from the distractions of vehicular traffic.
This unique setting offers a captivating experience, where the gentle lapping of water against wooden boats and the chirping of birds create a serene atmosphere.
Visitors can leisurely stroll along the charming canals, taking in the stunning views of the traditional thatched-roof houses and the intricate network of bridges.
The car-free environment encourages:
- A slower, more mindful pace of exploration
- Increased safety and comfort for pedestrians
- A deeper connection to the village’s historical character
This car-free haven invites travelers to truly slow down, appreciate the local culture, and enjoy the timeless beauty of Giethoorn.
Thatched-Roof Houses and Canals

Among Giethoorn’s most distinctive features are its charming thatched-roof houses and picturesque canals, which wind through the tranquil village.
The thatched roofs, a traditional Dutch architectural style, lend a rustic and quaint ambiance to the homes. Many of these houses also feature small, well-tended gardens that add to the village’s peaceful atmosphere.
The network of canals is the primary means of transportation in Giethoorn, as the city center is entirely car-free. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing boat cruise along these waterways, admiring the historic wooden bridges and taking in the serene scenery.
The combination of the unique architecture and the picturesque canals makes Giethoorn a truly enchanting destination.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Amsterdam
1-Hour Boat Cruise

What better way to experience Giethoorn’s charming canals than a 1-hour boat cruise? Visitors can sit back and admire the stunning thatched-roof houses and wooden bridges as the boat glides through the tranquil waterways. The leisurely cruise provides a unique perspective to appreciate the village’s serene atmosphere and quaint beauty.
The boat cruise offers:
- A peaceful escape from the bustle of everyday life
- Unparalleled views of Giethoorn’s iconic landscapes
- A relaxing journey through the heart of this delightful Dutch village
Cruising along Giethoorn’s maze of canals is an enchanting way to fully take in the village’s centuries-old charm and natural splendor.
Walking Tour Along Waterways

After the serene boat cruise, visitors can continue exploring Giethoorn on a walking tour along its picturesque waterways.
This offers a more intimate look at the quaint thatched-roof houses, charming wooden bridges, and tranquil canals that make this village so enchanting.
Strolling at a leisurely pace, guests can admire the intricate architectural details and lush greenery that line the banks.
The car-free city center allows for a peaceful and immersive experience, as visitors weave through the narrow paths and pause to snap photos of the charming scenery.
This walking tour provides an opportunity to truly soak in the unique character and serene atmosphere that define the ‘Venice of the Netherlands.’
Opportunity for Independent Exploration

The tour also allows visitors ample time to explore Giethoorn independently, wandering the car-free streets and discovering the village’s charms at their own pace.
This self-guided portion offers a chance to:
- Admire the beautifully preserved thatched-roof houses, each with its own personality and charm
- Stroll across the quaint wooden bridges spanning the tranquil canals, taking in the serene atmosphere
- Poke around the small shops and cafes, sampling local specialties and getting a feel for the leisurely Dutch lifestyle
With no set agenda, travelers can enjoy the picturesque setting, capturing photos and creating their own special memories of Giethoorn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing animals on the boat cruise and walking tour for safety and comfort reasons. Participants should leave their pets at home for this trip.
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour is wheelchair accessible. The small electric boats used for the canal cruise have space to accommodate wheelchairs, and the walking tour includes paved paths suitable for wheelchair use.
Are Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?
The tour doesn’t provide any meals, so dietary restrictions aren’t specifically accommodated. However, guests are free to bring their own snacks and meals that cater to their dietary needs during the tour.
Can I Extend My Stay in Giethoorn?
The tour package doesn’t include the option to extend your stay in Giethoorn. However, you can explore the village on your own after the tour ends and make your own arrangements to stay longer if desired.
How Many People Are in a Small Group?
The small group size for the Giethoorn tour is typically around 8-15 people. This allows for a more intimate and personalized experience compared to larger group tours. The exact group size may vary depending on demand and availability.
Recap
Giethoorn’s car-free streets, thatched-roof houses, and picturesque canals offer a serene escape from Amsterdam’s bustle.
The guided tour and boat cruise provide an intimate glimpse into the village’s history and architecture, while the round-trip transportation ensures a hassle-free adventure.
Visitors can enjoy Giethoorn’s quaint character and natural beauty, creating lasting memories of this enchanting destination.
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